OUT to boost ties with Higher Education Quality Forum
DAR ES SALAAM: THE Open University of Tanzania (OUT) has reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Higher Education Quality Assurance Forum (TUQAF) to support the forum’s effective operations, especially as advancements in science, technology and artificial intelligence continue to transform teaching and learning globally and in Tanzania.
Vice-Chancellor of the OUT, Professor Alex Makulilo, made the statement during the opening of the 8th TUQAF Annual Meeting, held at the university’s auditorium in Dar es Salaam.
“Now is the time for universities and educational institutions to adapt their curricula to these technological changes. It is essential to ensure that our education systems continue to meet the demands of the modern world,” said Professor Makulilo.
The meeting was attended by directors, department heads, and quality assurance officers from higher education institutions across the country.
Prof Makulilo explained that the impact of technological advancements and changes is affecting teaching and learning systems, particularly in universities, which are the institutions expected to produce the workforce of the nation.
He noted that quality assurance officers, coordinators, and staff in quality assurance departments need to reassess the matter and advise their institutions to revise curricula in order to align with the technological changes and developments in society.
Lecturer at the Catholic University of Mwenge (MWECAU), Dr Francis Bigambilana said that it is time for artificial intelligence to be integrated into the curricula and all areas of education in higher education institutions so that it can be measured and controlled according to quality standards.
Director of Quality Assurance at the Jordan University College (JUCO), Dr Susan Kolimba, also stated that advancements in science and technology, particularly the use of artificial intelligence (AI) , have dual implications for society and higher education institutions.
